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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Diesels seem to be the rage today. Just about every American manufacturer has one. When you consider the price at the pump, its really not surprising. The American public wants fuel economy. The EPA is demanding fuel economy. It stands to reason, then, that automakers are searching for ways to boost mileage and diesel driven vehicles are giving them a way to do it. Although the purchase price is usually higher, the range and power afforded by these virtually indestructible engines gives them the road worthy staying power drivers need in order to recoup those more sizable initial investments.

Ultra-low sulfur diesel, low-sulfur diesel, off-road full-sulfur diesel, number 1 or number 2 diesel, Cetane ratings for diesel and on and on it goes; what does it all mean and do I need to use an additive to supplement my diesel fuel? Today's diesel fuel is very different from diesel of 30 years ago. Modern ultra-low sulfur diesel is required in all over the road diesel vehicles and failure to comply with this requirement can result in costly fines. In this article, I will explain the sulfur content ratings and how the sulfur content affects the fuel system components. I will also take a look at Cetane ratings and why Cetane levels are important. And finally, I will explore using diesel fuel additives; how they work and whether you should consider using an additive.